Set the spots

What you need

Players

2 to 3 players

Time

8 to 12 min

Level

Intermediate

Equipment

Balls, Ball cart, Target

Ball fed by

The coach

Space

Half a court

Setup

1. The setter at the setter's spot, 1 m (3 ft) off the net and just right of center.
2. The coach in the middle of the back court with a cart, tossing to the setter.
3. Three floor targets: by the left pin, in the middle near the net, and behind the attack line in the middle.

How it runs

A coach tosses pass-like balls to the setter, who sends each one to the next target in order. The targets are the left pin, the middle of the net, then a pipe set behind the attack line, and floor markers show where each set should come down. Count the sets that land on the right target, then swap setters.

Time and reps: 15 to 20 sets per setter, then swap; rest as long as you work.

Coaching points

• Get to the ball early and square your hips and shoulders to the target.
• Keep the same hand shape whichever target you set.
• Use your legs to add distance and keep the wrists quiet.
• Set high and a little off the net so the ball never drifts into it.

Ways to change it

• The coach calls the target late, as the ball is in the air.
• Add a back set to the right pin once the front sets are steady.
• Add a hitter who attacks the set.

Terms on this page

Pin and antenna

The pin is the end of the net where outside hitters attack, and the left pin is on your left as you face the net. The antenna is the striped rod above each sideline; the ball has to cross the net between the two.

Pipe

A back row attack. The hitter jumps from behind the 10-foot (3 m) line, usually from the middle of the court.

Attack line (10-foot line)

The line about 10 feet (3 m) from the net. Back row players take off from behind it when they attack.

Target spot

The spot by the net, just right of center, where the setter stands.

Back set

A set sent backward over the setter's head.

Setter

The player who usually takes the second contact and sets the ball to a hitter.